What Causes Cracks In Walls And Ceilings

Homes naturally settle as they age which can create crevices in the walls and ceilings typically above doors.

What causes cracks in walls and ceilings.

We explore which cracks are cause for concern. Ceiling cracks generally follow the joints between drywall sheets and as long as they remain minor with widths of less than 1 8 inch you can patch them with tape and joint. Long horizontal cracks that extend along the joints where interior partition walls and upstairs ceilings connect generally signify roof truss issues which cause ceilings to detach from walls. Leaky windows and roofs can cause moisture to get into your home s walls.

Small cracks located above interior windows or doors are usually harmless. A foundation issue or framing issue. Vacation homes and those that sit empty for a few months are prone to developing cracks in both walls and ceilings. A crack is continuous though the wall and ceiling.

Ceiling cracks accompanied by wall cracks could be the result of the house settling. If the crack is vertical and starts near the apex where the wall and ceiling meet it might be a sign that it was created when the foundation settled after construction. This is due to the house not being. This type of crack suggest that there may be a structural issue i e.

Expansion and contraction with hot and cold weather changes along with normal settling can change wall to ceiling alignment and can cause cracks in both these areas. If the cracks in your walls are showing discoloration such as brown or yellow tinted stains then the problem may be the result of water damage to your home. Basically a continuous crack going through the ceiling and the wall. This causes the drywall to get wet soften and deteriorate which then leads to cracking.

Cracks in the walls of your home could indicate serious foundation issues but that s not always the case. Leaving a house vacant can cause wall cracks. Cracks that cause concern are those which run across the length of a ceiling and then continue down a wall along the same line. These cracks are serious and require professional attention.